Reader's Reviews from Goodreads
"... The book is accessible and meticulously detailed, and each concept is explored in depth. Although written primarily for young adults, I think even adults will find a lot to learn from this book. I found it informative as well as motivational. Highly recommended."
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite.
"How To Be Happy Being You by Dennis Hargis helps young adults identify anger and learn about their reaction to it, develop coping mechanisms, identify trauma, and adopt better problem-solving techniques. He explores the roles caregivers play in developing a child's view of anger and helps readers understand feelings while giving them tools to reduce anxiety and depression. Hargis provides suggestions for activities to do when anger spikes and reviews virtues and their possible positive impacts, explaining their meaning with applicable stories. The author includes illustrations that show teen readers visuals to categorize the type and degree of common stressors and offer a look at grief and the part it plays in repressed feelings.
"Dennis Hargis places gems of wisdom throughout the text, providing insight into ways to manage anger. ... straightforward techniques that include thinking positively and having realistic expectations. Reading his book could shift a person's perspective - providing an opportunity to grow - and inspiring the individual to take the steps to do it. As an adult caregiver, I felt the book showed the best ways to approach reactions to anger with my children, better equipping me to handle challenges. Through his conversational text and examples from music, popular figures, and movies, Hargis motivates readers to make positive decisions to change the world." - Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
"As a parent to a teenager, I always read through any type of self-help guide my daughter decides to pick up before she takes a deep dive in. How to Be Happy Being You by Dennis Hargis is the first time I did not have to dog-ear to go backtrack with her. Everything in Hargis's book was just that good. In our home, we are currently at a stage of the juxtaposition of an avalanche of hormones and emotions against a lack of know-how and maturity to manage them, and so the section on understanding the importance of identifying feelings stood out to me. I personally learned quite a bit about the crucial distinction betwen repression and suppression in handling painful emotions and how each manifests in different life circumstances with their potential long-term effects on mental and physical health. Hargis also does a really good job of using real-world examples that are relevant and relatable. While advocating for acts of kindness and generosity, he spotlights people like Keanu Reeves and Princess Diana, who exemplify generosity through their philanthropic efforts. This book is good for everyone, and I'm so glad it fell into my lap. Very highly recommended."
- Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
"How to Be Happy Being You" goes beyond teaching short-term anger reducers such as smelling flowers and blowing out candles as a way to support adolescents in understanding and managing feelings of angst and frustration! Using developmentally appropriate language, Mr. Hargis brings the 15 Goldren Rules of Anger to life to help youth gain insight and get to the bottom of what drives their feelings such as fear, shame, guilt, and disappointment. He challenges teens to build and rely on their character as a means of managing anger and building hope. The book includes dynamic drawings, vivid visualization exercises, and self-reflection pieces that encourage adolescents to explore how they see themselves, others, and the world. I am excited to incorporate "How to Be Happy Being You" in counseling sessions with teens and pre-teens as a way of cultivating healthy growth and development!!
- Dana Holtz Eds,LCPC, Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor, Certified Adlerian Play Therapist - Advanced, Certified Teacher for the League of Extraordinary Adlerian Play Therapist (LEAPT. AutPlay Therapist, SESS School Psychologist Mentored Lead Psychologist
Great read! This book is honest and speaks directly to teens who might be in crisis. It guides teens through self-exploration and the expressions of the intense emotions that come during adolescence. This journey through the emotions and life experiences empowers teens to gain insight and achieve personal growth. It helps them see and make a plan to develop their highest potential.
- Joann Peine, LSCSW, LMFT, LCSW
Hargis has crafted a well-written book tailored for teenagers, offering practical strategies to navigate the myriad emotions that accompany adolescence. His writing style resonates with teenagers, stricking a balance between accessibility and respect. Throughout the book, he adeptly guides teenagers in discerning normal emotional responses and recognizing when seeking additional mental health support is crucial. Emulating effective teaching practices, Hargis revisits key information through various perspectives, reinforcing understanding. Notably, the sensitive topic of suicide is thoughtfully addressed, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and highlighting that it is a permanent solution to a temporary issue. Even when delving into weighty subjects, Hargis maintains a compassionate tone, avoiding preachiness and refraining from language that might induce guilt regarding intense emotions. This book is a superb selection for individuals seeking to equip teens with the tools needed to navigate the complex emotions of growing up.
- Corissa Uphoff, librarian and art teacher
I like the concept that this book is suitable for different age groups and can be adjusted for children and adults, even though teens are the targeted population. Also, I like the idea that it can be used by one person or with groups of people. Being able to use the book in segments is another nice feature. This resource can be used by teachers, pastors, and counselors. It encourages self-reflection and is good in helping individuals see that they are not alone in whatever they are going through at different times in their lives.
- Dian Dotts, Retired Second Grade teacher